FINAL BILL REPORT

SB 5085

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Background: The Department of Licensing issues various special vehicle license plates that may be used in lieu of standard plates. Generally, special license plates that are sponsored by a governmental or nonprofit organization have an additional fee that is due annually, with the proceeds benefiting a specific organization or purpose. Other special license plates are available to individuals that meet certain requirements. One such special plate is the Gold Star license plate, which may be issued to the mother, father, widow or widower, a biological or adopted child, an adoptive parent, a stepparent, and a foster parent or other adult that is legally responsible for a member of the armed forces who died while in service and as a result of that service. Gold Star license plates are issued without payment of any license plate fees and are replaced free of charge if the plate is lost, stolen, damaged, defaced, or destroyed.

Summary: The list of individuals who are eligible to receive a Gold Star license plate is expanded to include a sibling of a member of the armed forces who died while in service and as a result of that service.

Widows or widowers with Gold Star license plates are exempt from all taxes and fees that are due annually at vehicle registration for one personal-use motor vehicle.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	48
House	97	(House amended)
Senate	46	(Senate concurred)